Let's face it: it takes quite a long time for any car model to take on an exciting new shape. In most cases, going from year to year, the production versions look almost the same. What makes them really different from their predecessors is what's inside.
Typically, a new model enters the market with significant engine upgrades resulting in improved overall performance on the road. You get more "horses", more torque and possibly a better time from 0 to 100. Usually these things become one of the main reasons for replacing not old, but "obsolete" cars with more recent models.
On the other hand, the value of any model in the mind of the buyer is determined not only by power characteristics, but also by fuel efficiency, capacity, reliability and other aspects. One of them is the available add-ons. They can be classified in different ways. There are features specially designed to enhance security. Others add practicality, such as systems that make it easier to access the trunk. Still others improve connectivity, infotainment technology, etc. What functions do modern buyers want to see in their cars, and sometimes even consider absolutely necessary?
Choosing the perfect car is still a challenge. It is gratifying to see that in recent years even entry-level models have come with surprisingly long lists of features that are both almost useless and extremely important. Here are the main options that every modern car should have, regardless of its type and price, according to driver surveys.
1. Heated steering wheel
People with cool palms are said to have warm hearts. But when driving, cold hands are not an advantage. Numb limbs are unable to work effectively with the steering wheel, and driving with gloves is not an option: both uncomfortable and tactile sensations disappear.
A heated steering wheel feels warm to the touch, whether it's covered in leather, plastic or wood. In frosty weather, it is convenient and pleasant to hold on to it - both comfort and safety merge together. Considering the risks associated with driving in the winter, it is not worth saving on this.
2. Power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support
The more comfortable the driver is, the fewer problems on the road - everyone who travels often knows this. Long, many hours of travel, which can cause pain and stress, are especially difficult to tolerate. Unpleasant sensations appear pretty soon, especially in the back. The versatile driver's seat with back support minimizes discomfort, making long-distance driving easier. Unsurprisingly, this option is considered one of the most useful.
3. Control of "blind spots"
Sometimes it is difficult for the driver to control what is happening around. Window pillars, head restraints or passengers may obstruct your view. Sometimes "blind" spots are so extensive that they hide a passing car or a gaping pedestrian. This creates a lot of problems. To avoid them, many new models are already fitted as standard with blind-spot warning systems that alert drivers with visual and / or audible signals.
4. Cruise control
Most people are familiar with the concept of cruise control: the driver sets a certain speed and presses a button. The system takes over control of the throttle, maintaining the selected pace until you apply the brake or deactivate the function. Adaptive cruise control goes a step further - it uses radar to determine if there is another vehicle ahead and automatically slow down your own. Other names for such technologies are dynamic radar cruise control, intelligent cruise control, etc.
Systems work in different ways. Some will slow the car down to a certain speed, forcing you to take control, others will bring it to a complete stop, after which it will automatically resume moving forward or require the driver to press a button or the gas pedal. This is not a stand-alone feature - the person needs to be careful and keep their hands on the steering wheel, but it reduces fatigue on long journeys and helps you respond in time to cars that cut you off.
5. Automatic braking
The World Highway Safety Institutes confirm that automatic emergency braking saves lives. Fortunately, automakers agree with this, and at least 20 of them have said they will include it as standard on all models by 2022, regardless of price point.
This function reacts to what the driver may miss, and if a collision threat is detected, the system automatically applies the brakes. At the moment, its principles are not standardized, with some automakers making it available only at city speeds, others at highway speeds.
In addition, there is no uniformity in the name: it is presented as autonomous emergency braking (AEB), city braking, forward collision mitigation or forward collision avoidance. If you need this feature - you do! - be sure to ask the seller exactly how it works.
6. Climate control
Recently, almost all models are standardly equipped with climate control systems, more often one- or two-zone. Some people prefer the multi-zone option so that the passengers in the rear seats can set their own comfortable temperature. This reduces stress during family travel.
7. Self-adjusting lighting
The headlights improve visibility after sunset, while the adaptive lighting makes it even better. Automatic adjustment of the directionality and intensity of the light flux is a useful and pleasant thing. Eyes accustomed to bright urban environments need more light in suburban or rural areas, and it's good when it doesn't need to be constantly adjusted. These systems use sensors that monitor the vehicle's surroundings to better illuminate corners and reduce glare for oncoming drivers.
8. Traction control and stability control
These are important safety features. The electronic control system ensures maximum traction in slippery conditions - after rain, for example, or on icy areas. Traction control is usually paired with anti-lock brakes to transfer power to the opposite side when the wheel turns too fast, preventing skidding.
Such electronic systems are built into almost all cars produced after 2012. By means of sensors, they determine the speed of rotation of the wheels, sideways movement, steering angle, etc., and help to maintain stability. Many manufacturers have come up with a brand name for their systems - for example, StabiliTrak from Buick and GMC or AdvanceTrac from Ford - but they work the same way.
9. Airbags
These devices operate in a collision, softening the contact of the driver and passengers with the main points of impact, such as the steering wheel, dashboard and side panels. Today it is difficult to find a car, wherever they are, only the number is different. The importance of this option is undeniable, but before buying any model, it is worth asking if there have been any claims to the manufacturer about the pillows and the recall of N number of vehicles in recent months.
10. Surround camera system
In the past, the only assistance of this kind available to motorists was a rearview camera. A useful thing, especially when parking and leaving a crowded parking lot. Today, car companies have gone further by making life easier for users with a 360-degree camera suite. Devices located around the entire perimeter of the car (in the radiator grille, under the side mirrors, etc.) allow the driver to see the vehicle as if from above, from a bird's eye view. With them, it is easy to check if there are children crouching behind, drawing faces on the asphalt, bags taken out of the trunk and other interfering objects. This is especially true when reversing and moving in difficult places, be it a tight city street or a narrow forest road.
According to recent studies, among other in-demand options (with the percentage of consumers surveyed who showed interest in them):
panoramic sunroof: 35%.
V fast SUVsavailable on the Russian market, there are many necessary options, so many of them are very popular.